Sega’s Yakuza franchise has proven both engrossing and stimulating. The lurid, well-drawn storylines combine with the brutal melee brawling, and it always helps to have memorable characters. Kazuma Kiryu isn’t the only playable character this time around but he remains a big highlight, and Kamurocho is a more authentic and visceral city than ever before. The story progresses at a decent clip, there’s always tons to do, and the established fighting mechanic almost never gets tiresome. However, it’s clear the developers recycled many of the crowd-pleasing maneuvers, and the pleasant diversions tend to occupy too much of the presentation. And at some point, we have to assume they’ll take the next step and implement voices in all phases of the game. That being said, Yakuza 4 remains solid on all counts.

These aren’t the most accomplished visuals you’ll ever see, but above all else, Sega wishes to up the ante in terms of atmosphere, immersion and gritty attitude. It’s in every little detail that spices up our environment, from the hostesses to the bums. Character detail excels during cut-scenes and the choreography is excellent, as usual. During gameplay, there’s a certain fuzziness; a lack of shiny clarity that many next-gen titles have long since embraced. Some of the special effects seem a tad lackluster as well, and this seems to be more evidence of the aforementioned recycling. But even though we don’t have a drastically upgraded graphical presentation, this is the best-looking Yakuza yet. Provided you make a few small exceptions, you should enjoy the consistent and mostly appealing style.

In regards to sound, it’s always hard to tell if the Japanese voice acting is any good, and yeah, there are still no voices during gameplay. Personally, I have no problem with dialogue boxes but some might. Furthermore, this is a series that has always impressed me with its great original compositions; the music has always managed to enhance the action. But for some reason, there seems to be more repetition in the soundtrack department this time around, and even the good selections take a backseat to the effects. It’s just not the same sort of all-around quality we’ve come to expect and that’s undeniably disappointing. Even so, the ambient background audio helps a great deal; it terms of creating a believable, fictional city, the sound does its job quite well. And maybe that’s what matters most.

Yes, Kazuma isn’t the only character; if you played the demo, you’ll know there are a total of four characters in Yakuza 4. Each of them play an active role in an expansive, semi-satisfying storyline, and each has a unique fighting style, which helps to add variety to an admittedly aging combat mechanic. The problem is that we never really get a firm grasp of the overarching plot, although we do get a chance to learn a lot about the four characters in question. It just seems a little erratic and all over the place, if you know what I mean. Still, I don’t want to give the impression that I dislike the story; the writing seems good, the pacing works out well (provided you don’t spend too much time entertaining hostesses), and the emotional intensity is appreciated. I just loved some of those in-your-face cut-scenes.

As you explore Kamurocho, you have more freedom than ever before. You still can’t enter all the buildings, but there are more open doors than you might expect, and your eyes are always drawn to yet another big-city trait that serves to envelop you in the beehive that is a thriving metropolis. Then again, when the time comes, the restrictions and limitations become obvious: when you get a phone call and you answer it, everything stops and a scene begins. And then there’s the standard and ever-annoying “invisible wall” issue that stops you from exploring Kamurocho further. In other words, this isn’t much like Grand Theft Auto but that’s not a bad thing, per se; Yakuza has always been a relatively unique creature of a very distinct design. It combines the arcade-y-ness of Double Dragon-esque combat with a story most reminiscent of RPGs and the appealing element of discovery.

Speaking of discovery, how’s about those hostesses? Talk about a “diversion.” You can enter into a mini-game of sorts that lets you “train” your favorite girl; you can dress her up like your own personal doll and even choose various make-ups. When she’s on your side, so-to-speak, you can trade e-mail addresses and take things to another level. Heck, you can even embark on date-like expeditions that have nothing to do with the main plot. This is all very nice but for some reason, I kept thinking the designers put a bit too much effort into this secondary element of the game. Pole dancing? Massage with tons of innuendo? Sure, it’s a girlfriend you don’t really touch (and one you pay for), but there are several hostess clubs, lots of girls and outfits, and plenty of ways to communicate. It’s just a bit much for a gritty, mafia-oriented adventure, don’t you think?

Thankfully, the combat is just as fun as ever. There’s a whole lot more blood than I remember, too, as stomping someone’s face will result in some definite red spatters. I still think the camera can be better, as it often sits too close to the action and causes many foes to disappear off to the sides. This has been an ongoing issue throughout the series, though, and I believe the fans have long since gotten used to it. The challenge can be significant, but you always feel competent and capable; stringing together combos is a blast, and picking up random environmental objects to spice things up is a plus. The Heat meter is basically the same; it allows you to execute even more powerful moves, and it also lets you use the background to your advantage. In Heat? Grab a foe with Circle, drag him to a car, and introduce his head to the glass.

The finishing moves are cool, too, but as I said before, the entire fighting system does feel a little old as we’ve seen most all these elements before. Still, I’m a big proponent of the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy and that being the case, I really can’t say anything against the firmly established combat style. It’s responsive and explosive and the inclusion of an RPG-like system in regards to character advancement is fantastic. On top of which, with four separate characters, you can experiment with four different styles, which keeps the gameplay fresh. And if at any time you do happen to grow tired of endless beatings, there’s always plenty to attract your attention. It’s a good, solid package that should give action fans a lengthy adventure that rewards the vigilant and brutal. And if you just so happen to need some TLC, the hostesses are always around to help. Nice.

Yakuza 4 has a lot to offer and for the most part, it delivers. The fighting is about as refined and diverse as it has ever been, the city of Kamurocho is more detailed and immersive, the story has plenty of highlights, and becoming immersed in urban Japanese culture has never been so entertaining. However, it’s held back by one slightly disappointing fact: the series is starting to show its age. No voices outside the cut-scenes, a combat system that – while perfectly functional – isn’t much different than before, and a camera that can once again be problematic. That, and it really does feel as if Sega spent too much time dealing with the extras; with the unessentials. Yes, the hostesses are an invaluable part of the atmosphere, as are other elements, but this causes the game to lose its focus. After saying all that, I will say that if you enjoyed Yakuza 3, you’ll love Yakuza 4.

If you have yet to play a game in the series, this one is worth the price of admission so long as you understand and can accept the drawbacks.

The Good: Meticulously designed and immersive city. Control and combat is tight and rewarding. Story can be very interesting. Exploration and RPG aspects add depth. Always lots to do.

The Bad: Music doesn’t have as much impact. Too many recycled gameplay elements. Camera is still iffy. Extra stuff can infringe on main plot.

Still not in English? If the gameplay doesn't feature voice acting, then there really is no reason for them to not dub their cut scenes. There's a lot of games out there for me, why would I reward this kind of lazy development?

The way you've phrased your comment is misleading. Everything is translated into English, so I wouldn't call that lazy.

If you're referring to the fact that the original Japanese audio has been left alone, well that comes down to your cultural taste. Personally, I think the atmosphere and style of the game and story is spectacular in Japanese.

If it were dubbed, it really doesn't have the same feel to a story about Yakuza in a Tokyo like city.

Nonsense, tons of Japanese speak English, you could easily create the same atmosphere with real voice over work. Alien is right, that's laziness. But I can't blame them too much, the games never do so hot in the US anyway.

just looking at the english subtitles makes me apprehensive of what an actual english dub would be. i started yakuza 3 over on hard mode and the japanese voices/dialogs fit perfectly but their "translation" in the subtitles or the words they used were hit or miss. i'm actually surprised they didnt use a lot of f bombs in the subtitles. kinda like subtitles because i am also learning japanese from the game. i know its not practical, hahaha learning japanese from a yakuza figure, but i still like it. only thing i want is that they make the subtitles actually pop and be readable. i mean whats the point of putting in subtitles that you cant read because it gets lost in the background.

kinda reminds me of the time i saw gurren laggan in english, main character was saying "big bro" alot which got stupid. direct translation wont really flow but rewriting it just looses the idea's orginal appeal. i cant really describe it. another anime i watched said "elder sister" alot. i just got annoyed.Last edited by johnld on 3/17/2011 2:51:54 AM

i played the yakuza 3 demo, didnt really like it. then i played the game and loved it. same as i did with valkyria chronicles. i love beating the hell of people especially with heat moves using weapons.

if you're looking for deals, best buy has is for 40. kmart has it for 60 but you get about 13 buck in points back plus yakuza 3. yakuza 3 is 15 bucks at kmart right now too.

Yakuza 3 demo is what you should expect of the game, plus bunch of side quests and minigames, also underground tournaments,it looks like now you can also coach a cage fighter, I'm not sure I still dont play it but watched some videos.

I can't understand what Sega was thinking with that Yakuza 4 demo. Combat is pretty much the weakest part of the game, and that's all they show?

There is actually a fantastic Yakuza 4 demo on the Japanese PSN (if you look for it remember that it's called Ryu ga Gotoko, not Yakuza, there). It's in Japanese, obviously, but it gives you a much better idea of the style and flavor that makes these games worth playing. I don't know why Sega didn't just translate that demo...Last edited by Kevadu on 3/18/2011 1:51:44 AM

U only care about Kiryu Kazuma that's ur reason for not liking the game.Are u kidding me Nathan Drake,Kratos,Cole Magrath or any other hero doesn't compare to the Epicness of Kiryu Kazuma!,Akiyama shun is a great character and also Taiga Saejima is also an important character to the story .In the end you will understand!Yakuza 4 has an Epic Story better than the first two and Kiryu does have a big part in the Story!Even if this is th last Yakuza in the story of the series i was impressed at the plot and a great ending to the Series!Yakuza 4 the things u can do,it's like Yakuza 3 on crack!Ben i feel sorry for you for not playing the First two in Japanese!These games have the most engaging plots in the history of video games!I don't know how much u played yakuza 4 cause Kiryu Kazuma comes after the introduction of the other characters!I officially hate u for giving this game a 8.1 u suck ben.Really i respected u but u disappointed me this time!Don't hear this guy people buy the game trust me it's better than GTA or Final Fantasy Story wise,things to do,and combat wise!PS3 Exclusive!The Graphics are Top Notch by taking into account the amount of things u can do in the city!Kiryu Kazuma Forever!Music doesn't have much impact r u bloody kidding me!Yakuza series has some of the best soundtracks in Videogames!Let me give u a link to the sound track u can hear on Youtube!Yakuza 1,2,3,4 OSTwatch?v=iIhrco9PYjk&feature=channel_video_title

This is not GTA this is a whole new genre!Last edited by Kiryu on 3/17/2011 12:13:23 AM

Wow... If we didn't already know that you are arguably the world's biggest Yakuza fan, we certainly do now. But man, Ben isn't the only one that's given it a review score in this range. In fact, most reviews are similar. Blind belief is good in some instances, but you must always look at the shortcomings, and yes, every game has them, even Yakuza.
Peace.

constantly flicking from character to character, and there not linked to the end.its like heavy rain, you have all these characters interacting but you never really get them linked.they made a massive mistake with this, they should of just kept us with the main character.the story is whats keeping this series together, its whats made people put up with the outdated rest of the game, but this has a really poor story so it has nothing holding it up.SEGA really need to bring this into the 2011 standard for games!3 and 4 feel like ps2 games on the ps3, which is a real shame because the series is so unique, done properly it could be so good.

@benNOt a 8.1Atleat a 9 would've been greatMusic,U only care about kiryu and camera were ur reasons to give it a 8.1?Wht did u mean when u said extra stuff can infringe on the main plot!Last edited by Kiryu on 3/17/2011 10:30:41 AM

Not console defining?What other World Roaming game can u tell me which has soo much depth to the things u can do,gameplay,and story?What do u mean when u say console defining?There is no other 3rd party publisher who has used the power of the PS3 in such excellent way except for MGS4!But comparing this to games like MGS4 there is lot more stuff going on!Final Fantasy 13 has nothing on the Yakuza games,I can understand the review for ff13 cause it is an RPG!But the yakuza games are not only RPG,they are combat games with toms of minigames and 100's of other gameplay mechanics for all the mini games and side missions!It's not ur standard JRPG Story!Each game is a real life mystery!Last edited by Kiryu on 3/17/2011 1:05:23 PM

im really disappointed with this.the series has just stagnated!has not evolved one bit since the original came out!i mean text boxes?in 2011!?come on!theres far too much recycled from yakuza 3, this honestly feels like yakuza 3 with new missions thats it!i was really hoping this would be a modernized yakuza, but sega have left this in the 18th century!thing that hurt most is the story.thats the only thing holding this series together, loose that and the series is dead!i really enjoyed 3s story, but this is just thrown at you with nothing stitching it together.your constantly chucked from character to character with really no link to them.why am i being chucked from one character to the other?what do they have to do with each other, and the overall story?just feels far too rushed, feels like they took yakuza 3, took the story out of someones bin, and stuck it together with saliva.its dripping all over the place, and falling to pieces!

Hasn't evolved since he first one came out!Can u tell me where u live so that i can come and play all the games from 1 to 4 and ask u where there is no evolving in each game?Yakuza series is the game in the entire world in which each entry everything is changed and evolved so much and these games are released each year!Admit u haven't even played through even one Yakuza game.Even if u played them u haven't spent time on them more than 2 to 3 hrs!Can u please tell me where u live cause i can come there and bloody kill u u liar!

right the game has evolved.thats why 4 has pretty much the same graphics?same moves?hell all the finishing moves are the same as 3.the only thing thats different is the story, and missions thats about it!new missions, and new story does not a new game make.go read IGNs review.

The city now has multiple levels like goig underground inside metros and go near the harbours and Yakuza games the story changes then also the boss battles change so even the set piece or the local changes do u understand?Missions are also different!There so may new Special moves in Yakuza 2 that u didn't even see in Yakuza 3,Yakuza 4 has 3 new characters which have different special moves and combat styles!The missions are also different what else could u ask for in a game u idiot?

No link to them? NO LINK TO THEM? play the damn game I just played the first 2 chapters and Akiyama does mention of Kazuma and he even meets and have a talk with Tanimura (the police character)in a very important part of the plot.

Well, I wasn't expecting spectacular, but above average is certainly enough for me. Yakuza 4 (and three if I can find a copy and it's going for a good price) will be mine next week when I go to see The Waifs! Seriously, I'm more amped for that concert than I have ever been for any game (with the possible exception of iF2).

Anyway, looking forward to seeing why this series is considered a cult classic, but I'll remember to keep my expectations in check. Thanks for confirming my purchase decision Ben.
Peace.

Don't worry lad. We all get a bit hot under the collar now again, but to call the review horrible is going a bit far, don't you think? I wonder what you'll say to me when I post my inevitable user review if it doesn't agree with you.Last edited by Lawless SXE on 3/17/2011 4:21:50 AM

The thing is how can u give a Excellent game a 8.1?I can play this game for a whole year no get bored!Story,Gameplay,Graphics,Voice Acting,Music are all top notch!I played this game which came out a year ago in Japanese and instantly realized this is the ultimate Gaming Experience!I just can't believe this reviewer!

Excellence, clearly, is subjective. There are some that say CoD is simply the pinnacle of gaming. Others will say Halo, Uncharted, MGS, FF. You say Yakuza. Personal preference can't be faulted. No doubt that they're all fantastic, but they appeal to different people, and Yakuza is no different. It simply won't resonate with certain people, for whatever reason.
Peace.

Sounds like someone here is a Applications Engineer for Sega's CS1 Team. ;-)

But seriously Kiryu, I'm quite sure that your passion for this franchise (on this board at least) has itself moved a few copies of this game and made new fans out of those who never would have given it a second thought.

Seriously i don't care about the score cause i will buy this game no matter what but other people seeing this review will realize that this game is avg and don't give this game a try that's my worry!This series is the most underrated series in US Gaming history!I want the games to sell well because they deserve it!and i need the other spin off's to come out in english cause they r also great!

the thing is when i want to play a game on the PS3 if i have only Uncharted 3 and Yakuza 4 i will surely play both cause both are top notch on all fronts!Last edited by Kiryu on 3/17/2011 10:26:24 AM

Yakuza 1 with Japanese voices shows how Kiryu Kazuma became a legend!Yakuza 2 follows the legend with a new powerful adversary and gives a little more back story of Kiryu Kazuma!Yakuza 3 he goes back to his orphanage he grew up with his friends from the first Yakuza Yumi and Nishki and gets pulled back into his life of crime!Yakuza 4 has 4 characters Akiyama Shun,Saegima Taiga,Tanimura Masayoshi and the legend Kiryu Kazuma get caught in a mystery of a murder incident that happened years ago and enemies are out for revenge and it's also connected to the explosion that happened in the end of the first game!I say Yakuza 3 is the only game with an ok story but all other three are epic storylines!I highly recommend playing the 1st one in Japanese by referring Gamefaqs walkthrough!

Ok Kiryu, I freaking love your passion for the Ryu ga Gotoku franchise as I freaking love it too...but come on man...just chill a little and enjoy the game.

I know that as an avid fan...scratch that...a DAMN HARDCORE FAN of the series, you probably should inform everyone on getting it and defending it and all...but relax, just play the game! Have some fun man! 8.1, 6.5, 6.0, 7.0 - who cares man...if you like IT...YOU WIN! It's ok.

However...I can understand if you're scared that this copy won't sell that much at all causing SEGA to think of not release Yakuza: Of the End over here in the States and Europe. In that case it would make sense for a fan like you to get all frantic and kind of ask everyone to buy it...but again relax man.

Sadly the Yakuza series just doesn't sell here that much in the States or Europe for that matter, but I'm pretty sure SEGA will keep on distributing it here. It was a close one with Yakuza 3 - but it came man!...a year later...BUT STILL CAME. AND NOW HERE WE HAVE YAKUZA 4...a year late...but we can enjoy right? RIGHT?

I just thought it was funny he was fighting my opinion despite me saying it's a great game... Why? Because I didn't say it was the be-all-end-all of games? I dunno... I think he could have used me as an ally to the real naysayers... Too bad I got lumped into that group.

I dunno... I absolutely ADORE the Assassin's Creed series this gen, and it is definitely my favorite franchise this gen too. But when guys like World say things about it being super repetitive/rinse-wash-repeat, whatever, I don't act like he killed my goldfish. Ya know? Based on his tastes, I can sort of see where he's coming from. And I did my best to point out it's strengths. At the end of the day, after a discussion, he'll make a decision, and that's that! Good or bad, at least I promoted my point of view effectively trying to bring in more fans, whether it worked or not!Last edited by Underdog15 on 3/17/2011 11:44:28 PM

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